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280 power of service. We like to show that we are not the nonentities for which we were taken.

The contents of the epistle which had excited so much curiosity were but a few words; but how much did they imply! They ran thus:—"Meet me to-night, between seven and eight, by the little pool in the wilderness. I think we are there secure from disturbance." There was neither address nor signature.

"The appointment is expected," thought Charles, "and the lady's handwriting too well known to need her name. Every precaution is taken, so that, even if the note were lost, it would not be of much consequence. So much caution indicates a most promising mystery—nous verrons." And the King returned to the terrace, where Madame de Soissons was talking to the Duke of Buckingham and the Chevalier de Joinville. They looked so well amused that he decided upon joining them.

"I am glad," said the Comtesse, "of your Grace's appearance. Will you interpose your authority, and insist upon their being convinced? It is very provoking to be so much in the right, as I am, and for them not to perceive it."

"Mine is a limited monarchy," said Charles, smiling; "but I will exert my utmost influence